Mandibular tooth is a molar located three teeth away from the midline of the jaw. The abnormal development and formation of this is seen primarily in small breed dogs. Therefore, it is generally recommended that small breed dogs be given a full evaluation of the mandibular first molars as they are growing in. This is one of the first permanent teeth to develop a calcified crown, and is one of the largest.
The defect will appear at the neck of the madibular tooth, often with gum evidence that the gum is receding. There may even be extensive bone loss near the root and possible exposure of pulp inside of the tooth. X-rays may reveal discontinuity between the roots and crown and/or presence of pulpal stones in the canal or chamber of the tooth.